Metcon Plus

Description Metcon Plus Tablets 5mg/500mg combine Glibenclamide (5mg), a sulfonylurea, and Metformin HCl (500mg), a biguanide, to manage type 2 diabetes mellitus. Glibenclamide stimulates insulin release from pancreatic beta cells by binding to ATP-sensitive potassium channels, lowering blood glucose. Metformin reduces hepatic glucose production, enhances insulin sensitivity, and decreases intestinal glucose absorption. This oral combination, used with diet and exercise, provides synergistic glycemic control for adults when single therapy is inadequate, but is not indicated for type 1 diabetes.

Ingredients Glibenclamide 5mg, Metformin HCl 500mg.

Drug Class Sulfonylurea and Biguanide Combination / Antidiabetic.

Dosage Form Tablet (1 strip = 10 tablets; pack size = 30 tablets).

Uses Metcon Plus Tablets are prescribed for:

• Managing type 2 diabetes mellitus with elevated blood sugar.
• Enhancing glycemic control when diet, exercise, or monotherapy fails.
• Combination with other antidiabetic drugs (e.g., insulin) for improved efficacy.
• Reducing risk of diabetes complications (e.g., neuropathy, retinopathy).
• Supporting long-term blood glucose stability in adults.

Doctor’s Review Dr. Ayesha Khan, a renowned endocrinologist in Karachi, praises Metcon Plus for its dual-action approach: “Metcon Plus is a cornerstone for type 2 diabetes management, blending Glibenclamide’s insulin boost with Metformin’s sensitivity enhancement. It’s highly effective for patients needing better control, but I always emphasize monitoring for hypoglycemia and kidney function to keep treatment safe and tailored.”

Dosage (Follow physician’s instructions — typical guideline)

• Adults: 1 tablet (5mg Glibenclamide/500mg Metformin) once or twice daily with meals.
• Adjustments: May increase to 2 tablets daily (max 20mg Glibenclamide/2000mg Metformin) based on glucose levels.
• Elderly or renal impairment: Start with 1 tablet daily; monitor closely.
• Not for children or type 1 diabetes.
• Take consistently to minimize GI upset; do not crush or chew.

In Case of Overdose Overdose may cause hypoglycemia (from Glibenclamide) or lactic acidosis (from Metformin), with symptoms like dizziness, sweating, muscle pain, or irregular heartbeat. Seek emergency medical attention immediately. Hypoglycemia requires fast-acting glucose (e.g., juice, glucose tabs); lactic acidosis may need hemodialysis and supportive care. Monitor vitals and blood glucose/electrolytes.

Missed Dose Take as soon as remembered with a meal, unless close to the next dose. Do not double up to avoid hypoglycemia or GI distress. Resume your regular schedule and consult your doctor if misses are frequent.

How to Use

• Swallow tablet whole with a glass of water, with or after meals to reduce stomach upset.
• Take at the same time daily (e.g., breakfast and/or dinner) for steady levels.
• Pair with a balanced, diabetes-friendly diet and regular exercise.
• Monitor blood sugar regularly with a glucometer.
• Carry glucose tabs for potential hypoglycemia; report symptoms like shakiness or palpitations.

When Not to Use Avoid Metcon Plus if:

• Allergic to Glibenclamide, Metformin, or excipients.
• Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.
• Severe kidney or liver impairment.
• Heart or respiratory disorders (e.g., heart failure, severe COPD).
• Pre-coma state or acute alcohol intoxication.
• Pregnant (discontinue 2 weeks before delivery) or breastfeeding.
• Undergoing surgery (stop 48 hours before/after).
• Excessive alcohol consumption.

Side Effects Common:

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain.
• Hypoglycemia (sweating, shakiness, dizziness).
• Headache, metallic taste, bloating.

Uncommon / Severe (Stop and seek medical help):

• Lactic acidosis (muscle aches, breathing difficulty, irregular heartbeat).
• Severe hypoglycemia (confusion, seizures, unconsciousness).
• Vitamin B12 deficiency (fatigue, paleness, neuropathy).
• Allergic reactions (rash, swelling, breathing issues).

Precautions & Warnings

• Monitor kidney function (eGFR, creatinine) regularly, especially in elderly or renal-impaired patients.
• Risk of hypoglycemia higher with skipped meals or other antidiabetics—eat regularly.
• Stop 48 hours before/after surgery or contrast imaging to avoid lactic acidosis.
• Avoid in liver cirrhosis due to lactic acidosis risk; safe in fatty liver or hepatitis C unless advanced.
• Check for B12 deficiency with long-term use—consider supplements.
• Inform all healthcare providers of use, especially before procedures.

Drug Interactions

• Enhance hypoglycemia: Insulin, sulfonylureas, NSAIDs, beta-blockers.
• Reduce efficacy: Corticosteroids, diuretics, thyroid drugs, phenytoin.
• Increase Metformin levels: Cimetidine, dolutegravir, ranolazine.
• Lactic acidosis risk: Alcohol, iodinated contrast agents.
• Antithyroid drugs, steroids: May require dose adjustments.
• Warfarin: Monitor INR for bleeding risk changes.

Food Interactions

• Take with meals to reduce GI upset; avoid skipping meals to prevent hypoglycemia.
• Limit alcohol—heightens lactic acidosis and hypoglycemia risks.
• Moderate high-carb foods; maintain a balanced, low-glycemic diet.
• Avoid grapefruit juice; may affect Metformin metabolism.
• Include B12-rich foods (e.g., eggs, fish) to counter potential deficiency.
• Stay hydrated to support kidney function and ease bloating.

Storage/Disposal

• Store at room temperature (15-30°C), away from direct light and heat.
• Keep in original strip, out of reach of children and pets.
• Dispose via pharmacy take-back programs; do not flush or trash to prevent misuse.

Quick Tips

• Carry glucose tabs or a sugary snack for hypoglycemia episodes.
• Test blood sugar daily, especially when adjusting doses.
• Report muscle pain or breathing issues immediately (lactic acidosis signs).
• Eat fiber-rich meals to ease GI side effects.
• Schedule regular HbA1c and kidney tests.
• Wear a diabetes ID bracelet for emergencies.

Laboratory Screening

• Blood Glucose Fasting: Monitor to assess glycemic control.
• HbA1c: Check every 3-6 months to track long-term glucose levels.
• Serum Creatinine/eGFR: Assess kidney function before starting and periodically.
• Vitamin B12 Levels: Screen annually for deficiency with long-term use.
• Complete Blood Count: Monitor for anemia if fatigue or paleness occurs.
• Regular check-ups ensure safe treatment; report symptoms like weakness or irregular heartbeat promptly.

Disclaimer This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Use only under the supervision of a licensed physician. Do not self-medicate.